Later today the U.S. Senate is set to vote on the much anticipated Food Safety Modernization Bill (S.510). While this bill has been controversial, family farmers and small-scale producers have won vital protections by getting the Tester Amendment included in the Manager’s Amendment. Now there are attempts to kill these provisions, which exempt farmers that have sales of less than $500,000 and sell within 275 miles of their farm, and others are hoping to kill the bill outright. Below is a link to an editorial regarding the recent amendments to the food safety bill and how they will protect family farmers and consumers.

Food and wisdom have gone hand in hand in many cultures, for as far back as people can remember. It seems like in recent history though these pearls of wisdom have been getting lost. Michael Pollan, author of the Omnivore’s Dilemma and most recent Food Rules is asking people to send him more of your favorite food rules that are healthy and healthful.

For his next book Michael is looking to expand on his rules and is looking for input from you.

“Many rules reach across cultures and also time, but some of the ones readers have submitted are specifically about navigating the modern food landscape: “It’s not food if it comes to you through the window of a car.” “Don’t eat at any restaurant of which there is more than just one.” “A snack is not the same thing as treat.” “If a bug won’t eat it, why would you?” and so on.

Will you send me a food rule you have found memorable and useful? Perhaps one passed down by your parents or grandparents? Or something you’ve come up with to tell your children – or your self?

Please send your suggestions to pollan.foodrules@gmail.com

I will include the best ones in the next edition of Food Rules, which will be published next fall and will be pleased to acknowledge your contribution if you so wish.

Slow Food OC has been invited to host a booth at the Inspired Buyer Fair being held this Sunday, November 21st at The Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach. So stop on by and say hello. This is a free sustainable shopping event which will include 40+ vendors selling holiday gifts, live music from local bands, do-it-yourself cooking and gift demos and children’s art activities.